Bear Lake Trail: A Rocky Mountain Gem
Discover stunning alpine scenery on an easy loop trail around picturesque Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Bear Lake Trail, located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, is a scenic 0.7-mile loop around Bear Lake, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. This easily accessible trail is perfect for families and those seeking a short, picturesque hike in a subalpine environment.
A brief summary to Bear Lake Trail
- Colorado, 80517, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the Bear Lake parking lot tends to fill up quickly.
- Consider using the free park shuttle to reach the trailhead during the busy summer months.
- Purchase an interpretive guide at the trailhead to learn about the natural and historical features along the loop.
- In winter and spring, be prepared for snow and ice on the trail; traction devices are recommended.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning reflections of Hallett Peak and Longs Peak on the lake's calm surface, especially in the early morning.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, follow US-36 West towards Rocky Mountain National Park. Enter the park and continue on US-36 W/Trail Ridge Road. Turn onto Bear Lake Road. Follow Bear Lake Road to its terminus at the Bear Lake Trailhead parking area. Note that a timed entry permit may be required to access Bear Lake Road during certain times of the year. Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead is free, but limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider using the park's free shuttle service from the Park & Ride.
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Public Transport
During the summer season, take the free park shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center or the Park & Ride lot on Bear Lake Road to the Bear Lake Trailhead. From the Park & Ride, take the Bear Lake Route shuttle to the Bear Lake Trailhead. Check the Rocky Mountain National Park website for the shuttle schedule and route details. The Hiker Shuttle from Estes Park Visitor Center to the Bear Lake Park & Ride requires a reservation with a $2 processing fee. Park entrance fees still apply.
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Walking
The Bear Lake Trailhead is located a short walk from the Bear Lake parking area and the shuttle bus drop-off location. From the parking area, walk uphill past the Bear Lake Ranger Station to reach the lake. The trail begins just beyond the ranger station.
Discover more about Bear Lake Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Forest Canyon Overlook
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Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty at Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
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Tour Estes Park
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The Wapiti Colorado Pub
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Red Rose Rock Shop
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Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
12.1 km
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Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
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Open Air Adventure Park
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Estes Park Brewery
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Fun City
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Mrs. Walsh's Garden
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Performance Park
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Estes Park Aerial Tramway
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The Water Wheel
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Snowy Peaks Winery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bear Lake Trailhead
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Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
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Dream Lake
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Alberta Falls
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Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
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Lake Haiyaha
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Emerald Lake
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Fern Lake
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Sprague Lake
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Lake Of Glass
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Rocky Mountain National Park
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Hollowell Park
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Fern Lake Trailhead
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Moraine Park
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Keyhole Route
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Essential places to dine
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
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Twin Owls Steakhouse
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Bird & Jim
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
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Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
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Trailhead Restaurant
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Coffee on the Rocks
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Rivers Edge BBQ
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Big Horn Restaurant
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The View Restaurant
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Sweet Basilico Cafe
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Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
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The Wild Rose Restaurant
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Bob & Tonys Pizza
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
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The Village Store of Estes Park
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
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Rocky Mountain Gateway
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
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Lizzie's Boutique
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Omnibus
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Over The Edge
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Favorite Things
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The Whispering Wood
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Country West City East Gifts
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Annie's
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
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217 Wine Bar
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Avant Garde Aleworks
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
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Pits & Stems
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Randi's Grill & Pub
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West End Tavern
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Press Play Bar LP
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The Bitter Bar
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License No. 1
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